As the whole world is adjusting in order to slow the spread of the Coronavirus, Israel may be seen as one of the most intense and strict countries when it comes to restrictions. Starting March 9th, any person entering the country from abroad must self-quarantine for 14 days. The self-quarantine involves signing up on a website in order to let the government know you’ve arrived back in the country and are taking the proper steps to isolate.
On March 18th, the government announced that no non-citizen or permanent resident of Israel will be allowed into the country. This regulation will be in addition to the self-quarantine after arriving from abroad. Additionally, any visa that was set to expire after March 12th will be automatically extended to June 30th, with the idea that people may not be able to fly back to their home country.
With the virus continuing to spread, the Israeli government has made more efforts to protect its citizens. As in the states, the government requires people to be at least 6 feet apart (2 meters as they put it) and strongly recommend wearing a protective mask. Israel also has forbid people from going more than 100 meters (330 feet) from their homes. The few exceptions to the 100 meter rule are going to and from work, going grocery shopping, receiving medical or other vital services, donating blood, legal processes, and only a handful of other reasons.
In the place of work, 10 employees or 15% of the company (whichever is greater) are allowed to be in the workplace at any given time. An employer can increase this number to 30% of the company if the additional employees are essential for function of said company. However, the employer must make the temperature of every employee coming into work before they step into the workplace.
The Coronavirus outbreak has disrupted almost every aspect of life, with religious practice not being an exception. Cities like Bnei Brak and Jerusalem have additional restrictions in order to slow the spread in densely populated neighborhoods.
For more information on COVID-19 restrictions and policies in Israel, head to https://govextra.gov.il/ministry-of-health/corona/corona-virus-en/guidelines/#lockdown
